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Brooklyn Boys #1
Electric Sunshine
Charlie: They say time heals all wounds, but it's been five years since my boyfriend died, and I haven't dated since. I threw myself into architecture and thankfully there's just no time to wallow or look for love. My friends push me to get back out there, but I'm not ready to be vulnerable again. Then I meet Kev. He dresses like a catalog model, but he talks like he's got an old soul. He shows me what I'm missing, but holds his own heart just out of reach. I can't stop falling for him, and he might be worth taking a risk for. Can I believe in myself enough to win his trust and his heart? Kev: My parents kicked me out for being gay when I was only sixteen. You grow up fast when that happens. You do things you regret just to stay alive. All that's behind me now. I'm 23, moved to Brooklyn, got an annoying roommate, and all I have to do is stay safe and pay the rent. Sounds easy? Yeah, my options are closing in fast. I don't want to stand on street corners again, but everyone in this city just wants to fix their own loneliness, not mine. And then there's Charlie, who sees the best in me when others only see their own reflection. Can we bare our hearts to each other and build a future together? Electric Sunshine is book one in the Brooklyn Boys series, where good men find their happily ever afters in a hectic metropolis. It has an HEA and no cliffhanger. There will be naughty bits doing naughty things, grumpy roomies, opposites attracting, retail hell, hangover specials, and cracked hearts made better-than-new.
328 pages, Paperback
First published September 18, 2018
165 people are currently reading
276 people want to read
About the author
E. Davies
130 books728 followersE. Davies writes feel-good, low-angst romance that never fades to black when the going gets good! Born in Canada, after 16 moves and counting, Ed has finally put down roots in north London.
He emerges from his writing nest to coo over fuzzy animals, flee from cute guys, dance through the streets with his chosen family, put together fierce looks, and—most of all—befriend local flowers.
Newsletter: edaviesbooks.com/subscribe
Facebook Group: facebook.com/groups/edavies
He emerges from his writing nest to coo over fuzzy animals, flee from cute guys, dance through the streets with his chosen family, put together fierce looks, and—most of all—befriend local flowers.
Newsletter: edaviesbooks.com/subscribe
Facebook Group: facebook.com/groups/edavies
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 108 reviews
September 26, 2018
Ed Davies' style of writing just makes me happy. His books are usually low in angst, drama free and just a generally all round lovely relationship with a wee bit of spice to stop them being overly sweet.
This one, the first full length story in his new series, a spin-off from the Significant Brothers, was a delight. Ed handles the potential dramatics from having a sex worker as one of the MCs with consummate ease.
Kevin never feels like his job is there for effect only, his escorting is his way of life and, while it might not be an ideal situation, it's one he's chosen to manage the best he can.
I loved the meet cute in this book, I loved Darren's character and I'm glad to hear he will be in book two, along with Adam, our other ranch hand escapee.
Charlie was such a sweetie too, principled and straight as an arrow in character, but utterly lost at how to move on five years after his boyfriend's death. And a big shout out to his dead boyfriend's parents, who were awesome!
All in all this really is a feel good romance with some great emotional connections and, in spite of the short time frame everything takes place within, it never felt like insta love to me.
#ARC kindly received from the author in return for an honest and unbiased review.
This one, the first full length story in his new series, a spin-off from the Significant Brothers, was a delight. Ed handles the potential dramatics from having a sex worker as one of the MCs with consummate ease.
Kevin never feels like his job is there for effect only, his escorting is his way of life and, while it might not be an ideal situation, it's one he's chosen to manage the best he can.
I loved the meet cute in this book, I loved Darren's character and I'm glad to hear he will be in book two, along with Adam, our other ranch hand escapee.
Charlie was such a sweetie too, principled and straight as an arrow in character, but utterly lost at how to move on five years after his boyfriend's death. And a big shout out to his dead boyfriend's parents, who were awesome!
All in all this really is a feel good romance with some great emotional connections and, in spite of the short time frame everything takes place within, it never felt like insta love to me.
#ARC kindly received from the author in return for an honest and unbiased review.
February 3, 2019
Mm...this wasn't the best first novel for me to read for this author. Let me start out by saying that I liked it, and Kev and Charlie were cute and sweet together, so I enjoyed their interactions and their romance.
But their sexual chemistry was a little off for me, their sex scenes were like on the verge of being hot and passionate, but didn't quite get there. I guess they would have been hot if I'd been able to feel that chemistry between them, but I didn't really.
There was something frustrating about the actual plot, though. I'm not quite sure how to articulate my problem, but I'll try. I think it was...I guess, aside from being boring a lot of the time because it focused on each of their jobs a lot, it almost felt a little annoying that Kev quit prostituting not because he wanted to, but because he had to.
Which would be fine, better to get out of it than be arrested, if that were to happen - but it also felt like...that was what he really wanted to do but he couldn't, so was he really fine with stopping and finding a new career path or was he just doing it because he had to? I guess I never felt like we got to a place where Kev was all that happy that he had to quit.
I would want him to quit, ultimately, because he wants to. It just felt like there was something lingering throughout the book, even when Kev seemed fine not being a prostitute anymore and that he was happy he got out of that work. I dunno if this is even that big of a deal, but I guess it kinda bothered me. I don't know if I articulated this well, but that's the best I can do to explain it.
Also, I didn't like that the two nastiest people to show up in this book were women. There was like maybe one nice woman, and one okay woman character. And it wasn't even necessarily sexism, but like...all the men around them were just great, nice and sweet guys and that felt a little...unrealistic? I mean Adam, Kev's roommate, wasn't the nicest, to be fair, and he had some bad outlooks on prostituting, but he was still a good guy ultimately.
It just felt a little skewed to me. Not that m/m romance has to have many or any female characters, but if they are, I just would hope they would be treated a little more human. And this is not me saying they can't be nasty, but...maybe don't have those two as basically the only women characters? Aside from two others that barely appear in the book.
Ugh, anyway, all that is to say, I liked this, but I didn't love it. I thought it was long winded at times as well, and got slow at times, especially when it focused so heavily on work stuff. I'm not reading this to hear how Charlie's work situation is going in so much detail, okay? I'm here for the romance. Cut out a lot of the work shit and this book would have been much shorter - and all the better for it.
So...this wasn't the best introduction for me to this author. I don't know if I'll give them another chance, because this was a lot, and slow at times, and it bothered me quite a bit at times. But it was still a likable story with two great MC's who were adorable together, so I still liked it. Maybe one day I'll try another of this author's books. But it won't be for a long while, most likely.
But their sexual chemistry was a little off for me, their sex scenes were like on the verge of being hot and passionate, but didn't quite get there. I guess they would have been hot if I'd been able to feel that chemistry between them, but I didn't really.
There was something frustrating about the actual plot, though. I'm not quite sure how to articulate my problem, but I'll try. I think it was...I guess, aside from being boring a lot of the time because it focused on each of their jobs a lot, it almost felt a little annoying that Kev quit prostituting not because he wanted to, but because he had to.
Which would be fine, better to get out of it than be arrested, if that were to happen - but it also felt like...that was what he really wanted to do but he couldn't, so was he really fine with stopping and finding a new career path or was he just doing it because he had to? I guess I never felt like we got to a place where Kev was all that happy that he had to quit.
I would want him to quit, ultimately, because he wants to. It just felt like there was something lingering throughout the book, even when Kev seemed fine not being a prostitute anymore and that he was happy he got out of that work. I dunno if this is even that big of a deal, but I guess it kinda bothered me. I don't know if I articulated this well, but that's the best I can do to explain it.
Also, I didn't like that the two nastiest people to show up in this book were women. There was like maybe one nice woman, and one okay woman character. And it wasn't even necessarily sexism, but like...all the men around them were just great, nice and sweet guys and that felt a little...unrealistic? I mean Adam, Kev's roommate, wasn't the nicest, to be fair, and he had some bad outlooks on prostituting, but he was still a good guy ultimately.
It just felt a little skewed to me. Not that m/m romance has to have many or any female characters, but if they are, I just would hope they would be treated a little more human. And this is not me saying they can't be nasty, but...maybe don't have those two as basically the only women characters? Aside from two others that barely appear in the book.
Ugh, anyway, all that is to say, I liked this, but I didn't love it. I thought it was long winded at times as well, and got slow at times, especially when it focused so heavily on work stuff. I'm not reading this to hear how Charlie's work situation is going in so much detail, okay? I'm here for the romance. Cut out a lot of the work shit and this book would have been much shorter - and all the better for it.
So...this wasn't the best introduction for me to this author. I don't know if I'll give them another chance, because this was a lot, and slow at times, and it bothered me quite a bit at times. But it was still a likable story with two great MC's who were adorable together, so I still liked it. Maybe one day I'll try another of this author's books. But it won't be for a long while, most likely.
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September 25, 2018DNF en el 10%, no me estaban gustando ni los personajes ni el estilo de narración.
April 9, 2025
E. Davies’ novels are always so uplifting, and Electric Sunshine is sweet and witty, and absolutely enjoyable. The characters both need some TLC and they work well together in this hurt/comfort tale, plus they’ve got wonderful chemistry. I don’t need to tell Davies’ fans that they write a marvelous love scene, and Electric Sunshine does not disappoint!
Audio beautifully performed by Nick J. Russo - five huge stars for him! This talented narrator’s skills have grown over the years, and he continues to portray characters in realistic, approachable ways which always appeals to me. The voice he uses for Kev is so heartbreakingly adorable, just a fantastic performance.
an audiobook copy of Electric Sunshine was provided to me for the purpose of my honest review
Audio beautifully performed by Nick J. Russo - five huge stars for him! This talented narrator’s skills have grown over the years, and he continues to portray characters in realistic, approachable ways which always appeals to me. The voice he uses for Kev is so heartbreakingly adorable, just a fantastic performance.
an audiobook copy of Electric Sunshine was provided to me for the purpose of my honest review
September 18, 2018
Electric Sunshine is the first book in a brand-new series by E. Davies, and what a treat it is. The trope (opposites attract, age gap) may sound like every other book in the genre, but don’t let that fool you. This author takes you on an emotionally charged journey of two men, both with a lot of baggage, but both taking up the challenge to find new paths to travel. Without being overly dramatic or angsty, this story still packed a punch because of the way the story is told. I always find their writing so appealing. They make me feel part of the story. Written with flair, laced with humor, and then deep, thought-provoking reflections, with detailed considerations and heartfelt decisions.
I loved Charlie and Kev. They are deeply developed characters with multiple layers, but first and foremost, they felt real. It doesn’t matter how old you are or what you do. It is the inner strength and integrity of a person that makes them what they are. Take Charlie. He is older with a steady job as a successful architect. You would think he is the most confident one. Well, he is in a way, but not as it comes to his personal life. Then he is swimming, not knowing what to do. It makes him so likable and sweet. Kev is young and never finished his high school, but he is street smart and, in some ways, so much surer and wiser than Charlie. They balance each other. They don’t want to change the other but are trying to help each other be what they want to be. They stick up to their beliefs and don’t back down. Not out of stubbornness, but with well-thought-out arguments. You can decide to follow your heart without losing yourself.
That makes this story, and every story E. Davies writes for that matter, so powerful. Even after you have finished the books, you keep thinking about it.
I can’t wait for the next book in the Brooklyn Boys series.
October 15, 2020
It took my like half the book to actually get into it. When I did it was a decent enough read. Sadly not my favorite E. Davies book. Really happy that Kev finally got his HEA though. It was long overdue.
April 25, 2021
While the story itself was fine, something about the way it's written made it go about so slow! I had a hard time getting through it, even though nothing of the plot itself was bad.
I had the same hard time going through the significant brothers series (I couldn't go on after the first book), so I'll just have to call E's writing style "not for me" and move forward.
I had the same hard time going through the significant brothers series (I couldn't go on after the first book), so I'll just have to call E's writing style "not for me" and move forward.
September 12, 2018
This book has so many feels that I actually laughed out loud, cried and worried with these characters. This book made me ask questions of myself on how I may have made judgments because of their life choices, be it school or profession or even life style. I thought myself to be open minded but with a character working in the sex trade, not to support kids/family, but because they are afraid to grow or lack or education, I realized I do judge. Maybe instead of judging I should be asking questions to see if there is a way to help.
Kev is a fascinating character and because of my curiosity want to go read his and Adam as a secondary characters in The Significant Brothers series which I haven't yet read. Charlie has a past that being just a bit older than the character, makes me wonder how long it would take me to be open to love again if my husband was to pass away tragically. I love how Ed takes the time to educate us and not just assume the readers know things. I love how he makes the characters realistic, not only with emotions but with their jobs. I like knowing some of the little details that other authors may not do. For example, Kev having check ins with Adam when he is out on a paid date OR Charlie's different stages of his employment in what he did as an intern vs junior associate. Those things help us readers with connecting with the characters, makes us part of the story.
When I mentioned emotional scenes in the book, I think the most emotional one for me is when Kev goes to Bubbles after trying to go out dancing. From being dismissed at the club because of his previous profession and then the treatment he receives from the waitress just tore my heart out. It also made me realize Darren needs a story just as much as Adam. These two would make a great story, but alas the great mind of Ed let's us know at the end that these two will be book 2 which we don't have long to wait for.
Kev is a fascinating character and because of my curiosity want to go read his and Adam as a secondary characters in The Significant Brothers series which I haven't yet read. Charlie has a past that being just a bit older than the character, makes me wonder how long it would take me to be open to love again if my husband was to pass away tragically. I love how Ed takes the time to educate us and not just assume the readers know things. I love how he makes the characters realistic, not only with emotions but with their jobs. I like knowing some of the little details that other authors may not do. For example, Kev having check ins with Adam when he is out on a paid date OR Charlie's different stages of his employment in what he did as an intern vs junior associate. Those things help us readers with connecting with the characters, makes us part of the story.
When I mentioned emotional scenes in the book, I think the most emotional one for me is when Kev goes to Bubbles after trying to go out dancing. From being dismissed at the club because of his previous profession and then the treatment he receives from the waitress just tore my heart out. It also made me realize Darren needs a story just as much as Adam. These two would make a great story, but alas the great mind of Ed let's us know at the end that these two will be book 2 which we don't have long to wait for.
July 2, 2019
I really enjoyed the Riley Brother's series, but like that one, this one is a little bit slow out of the gate... but I have great faith in this author that it will also be an excellent series!
Jumping right into book 2, Live Wire...
Jumping right into book 2, Live Wire...
September 25, 2018
En general no me gustó mucho porque si bien las partes en las que se cuenta por separado los pensamientos y hechos de cada personaje son algo llevaderos, cuando están juntos hay menos química que entre Daanerys Targaryen y John Snow... que ya es decir!
En general me quejo que de que muchas veces los protagonistas son treintañeros y se comportan y hablan como si aún fuesen al instituto, en este caso es justo lo contrario, Charlie es en su forma de ser como uno de 50 mínimo y por más que le puse ganas, mi mente no consiguió colocarlo en los treinta y pocos, salvo al final del todo cuando parece que se relaja un poco, y Kev no sé realmente de qué va, de veinteañero curtido por la vida o de uno dudoso, egoísta y banal, dependía del capítulo.
Los secundarios tampoco mejoran la cosa, es más no me gusto casi ninguno.
Por dupuesto, no seguiré con la serie
En general me quejo que de que muchas veces los protagonistas son treintañeros y se comportan y hablan como si aún fuesen al instituto, en este caso es justo lo contrario, Charlie es en su forma de ser como uno de 50 mínimo y por más que le puse ganas, mi mente no consiguió colocarlo en los treinta y pocos, salvo al final del todo cuando parece que se relaja un poco, y Kev no sé realmente de qué va, de veinteañero curtido por la vida o de uno dudoso, egoísta y banal, dependía del capítulo.
Los secundarios tampoco mejoran la cosa, es más no me gusto casi ninguno.
Por dupuesto, no seguiré con la serie
January 29, 2019
Audiobook reviewSo sometimes it pays to actually read the blurb before picking a book up. Otherwise you might end up like me, believing that the story would go one way and then end up being about something else entirely. For some reason, and please don’t ask me why, because I haven’t got the faintest idea, but I thought this book was going to be about a musician. It’s not, not even close, which is why I was understandably confused in the beginning when we got an architect trying to enter the “meat market” five years after his boyfriend’s death, and a sex-worker trying to earn some extra cash for rent. So yeah, I wasn’t even close. I didn’t mind it, it was just unexpected ;)
Charlie’s been shut down for so long, using work to hide from the world. Finally though, he’s ready for more, ready to dip his toes in the dating pool. At his first night out he’s introduced to Kev, an escort and he realises this might be the start he needs. To have someone guide him through dating again. What he didn’t count on was the attraction to the gorgeous man and it’s not long until he wants more than just platonic dates.
I enjoyed how it was Charlie that decided that he was ready to get out there again. Sure, he had supportive friends and family but they weren’t obtrusive or nagging, just cheering him on. In so many books, and in reality too I imagine, friends and family always push to get the grieving party to move on, to start dating again often before they’re ready. It was refreshing that wasn’t the case here. They were there for sure, but more as company and support being friends and family.
Kev is of two minds in regards to his work. On the one hand, he loves that he decides over his own time, the who and when – and the price. And for the most part he enjoys it. On the other, it’s getting harder to find clients when his profiles keep getting shut down. And with the threat of an arrest and a permanent record is increasing, he’s kind of looking for something new. If he only knew what that was.
Kev and Charlie made sense together. They both were what the other needed - Kev introducing Charlie to the dating world and intimacy again and Charlie giving Kev a push towards something new supporting each other when they faltered. So from that point of view they made sense together. To men though, it felt like they lacked chemistry and their relationship felt kind of forced, not to mention way fast. They’d be great at friends, but should probably stay there.
Nick J. Russo narrates with feeling, adds the appropriate intonations that the current situation calls for; sadness, confusion, passion and even anger. It’s there in his voice and adds that extra flavour that I’m always looking for in my audios. Add in the different voices for the different characters to make the listen effortless and it was a hit for me.
A copy of this book was generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review
September 24, 2018
OMG I LOVE THIS BOOK!
I so wanted to give it 5 Stars but I did have a few issues, most not serious enough to even call attention to.
Charlie does seem to me to be a bit clingy & needy, & I did kinda cringe at the line “The future looked rosier than it ever had, & Kev? Well, he held the keys to it all.” I don’t want to be anywhere near a pedestal!
The characters seemed so real & not contrived. The dialogue never felt forced, but natural. There was no I gotta say sweet things to make them seem all in love. The Brooklyn attitudes were on full display and I f-ing loved it! No, sometimes the truth was painful and needed to be said. Even though they both became obsessed with each other, there was an honest attempt to show them continuing with their lives & not simply putting life on hold waiting for love to happen. All of the descriptions of Kevs teacups had me inthralled & the parallels with his life had me literally in tears over & over. I simply can’t gush enough.
I loved how Kev confronted Charlie instantly when he felt that problems were arising rather than simply getting all butt hurt & crawling off to stew over something that was never an issue but only misunderstandings. I loved how he set him down & laid out the “boyfriend rules”. NIP IT IN THE BUD I SAY! In so many of these m-m romance books the reader is often told things that one or either of the mc’s should actually be saying to the other one. Not here. They simply lay it all out there & let what’s vital be known. HOW FRICKING REFRESHING IS THAT SHITE!
I loved that this isn’t HEA! I just hope to be able to watch these 2 grow into a passionate love affair for the ages. There’s just the right amount of “touching of boy parts” & doesn’t read like porn pulp (nothing against that stuff. I love it to sometimes).
This story is so incredibly sweet, & talk about a slow burn? GOOD GAWD! I think I singed some of my own boy parts allowing this book anywhere near them! THIS BOOK IS NICE & TOASY!
I can’t let this go unmentioned. Did I actually detect a dab of prose in this book?! GASP!!!! How incredibly unique a concept that an author might actually write with some thought & skill. I think I’m having the vapors!
I highly recommend this book, this author, & in fact, he’s just jumped to the top of my favorite M-M romance author list.
I so wanted to give it 5 Stars but I did have a few issues, most not serious enough to even call attention to.
Charlie does seem to me to be a bit clingy & needy, & I did kinda cringe at the line “The future looked rosier than it ever had, & Kev? Well, he held the keys to it all.” I don’t want to be anywhere near a pedestal!
The characters seemed so real & not contrived. The dialogue never felt forced, but natural. There was no I gotta say sweet things to make them seem all in love. The Brooklyn attitudes were on full display and I f-ing loved it! No, sometimes the truth was painful and needed to be said. Even though they both became obsessed with each other, there was an honest attempt to show them continuing with their lives & not simply putting life on hold waiting for love to happen. All of the descriptions of Kevs teacups had me inthralled & the parallels with his life had me literally in tears over & over. I simply can’t gush enough.
I loved how Kev confronted Charlie instantly when he felt that problems were arising rather than simply getting all butt hurt & crawling off to stew over something that was never an issue but only misunderstandings. I loved how he set him down & laid out the “boyfriend rules”. NIP IT IN THE BUD I SAY! In so many of these m-m romance books the reader is often told things that one or either of the mc’s should actually be saying to the other one. Not here. They simply lay it all out there & let what’s vital be known. HOW FRICKING REFRESHING IS THAT SHITE!
I loved that this isn’t HEA! I just hope to be able to watch these 2 grow into a passionate love affair for the ages. There’s just the right amount of “touching of boy parts” & doesn’t read like porn pulp (nothing against that stuff. I love it to sometimes).
This story is so incredibly sweet, & talk about a slow burn? GOOD GAWD! I think I singed some of my own boy parts allowing this book anywhere near them! THIS BOOK IS NICE & TOASY!
I can’t let this go unmentioned. Did I actually detect a dab of prose in this book?! GASP!!!! How incredibly unique a concept that an author might actually write with some thought & skill. I think I’m having the vapors!
I highly recommend this book, this author, & in fact, he’s just jumped to the top of my favorite M-M romance author list.
September 18, 2018
I loved this book. Charlie is an interesting character that is finally aware of how empty his life is. He hasn't done anything but work for the last five years. He used work to cope with the sudden death of his boyfriend, but now he is slowly waking up to his life and realizes that he misses having someone to share it with. When he meets Kev his eyes and heart open. He doesn't care about Kev's occupation, just about the amazing guy he meets at the club.
Kev likes his work and makes more than he would working a normal menial job. It is getting harder to work though with crackdowns on paid dates on popular sites and with the possibility of being reported to police. He has a wall up and doesn't trust easily, but there is something about the cute and sometimes bumbling man that he met at the club.
These guys have so much going for them and so much mental baggage that is trying to hold them back in work and in life. They do so well together and compliment each other. I love how they support each other and their dreams without trying to influence their choices. I also love how they help each other conquer their fears.
I laughed, cried, and did a mental "aww," while reading this book. I think this might be my favorite book by E. Davies. You really need to checkout this book.
Kev likes his work and makes more than he would working a normal menial job. It is getting harder to work though with crackdowns on paid dates on popular sites and with the possibility of being reported to police. He has a wall up and doesn't trust easily, but there is something about the cute and sometimes bumbling man that he met at the club.
These guys have so much going for them and so much mental baggage that is trying to hold them back in work and in life. They do so well together and compliment each other. I love how they support each other and their dreams without trying to influence their choices. I also love how they help each other conquer their fears.
I laughed, cried, and did a mental "aww," while reading this book. I think this might be my favorite book by E. Davies. You really need to checkout this book.
September 21, 2018
An excellent start to a new series
E Davies draws you in, no matter who the characters are. From an architect to a guy who has been on the streets and now tries to make a living as best he can, you feel for them, you understand them and you care about them.
Charlie lost his long term partner 5 years ago, but his heart has never woken from its sleep of grief.
For Kev, who left his home town far behind and has come to the big city to make a new life, finding romance is last on his mind, but a chance meeting in a nightclub leads to so much more.
But both Kev and Charlie have to really consider what they want from life, as well as finding the courage to love before a happy ending is guaranteed.
This is an excellent first book, for which I received a copy in exchange for an honest review.
Reading Wind Tunnel before hand, sets the scene but this is a standalone.
E Davies draws you in, no matter who the characters are. From an architect to a guy who has been on the streets and now tries to make a living as best he can, you feel for them, you understand them and you care about them.
Charlie lost his long term partner 5 years ago, but his heart has never woken from its sleep of grief.
For Kev, who left his home town far behind and has come to the big city to make a new life, finding romance is last on his mind, but a chance meeting in a nightclub leads to so much more.
But both Kev and Charlie have to really consider what they want from life, as well as finding the courage to love before a happy ending is guaranteed.
This is an excellent first book, for which I received a copy in exchange for an honest review.
Reading Wind Tunnel before hand, sets the scene but this is a standalone.
September 22, 2018
Charlie and Kev
A brilliant start to a new series and I cannot wait for the others.
Charlie was not sure he wanted to put himself on the dating scene again .
He lost the love of his life five years ago and made work his priority.
While Kev has no family and doing what he can to live.
They meet and even though Kev was a sex worker, did not stop Charlie from forming a connection.
There was no set of drama in the relationship, so it was good to see how the love developed .
A brilliant start to a new series and I cannot wait for the others.
Charlie was not sure he wanted to put himself on the dating scene again .
He lost the love of his life five years ago and made work his priority.
While Kev has no family and doing what he can to live.
They meet and even though Kev was a sex worker, did not stop Charlie from forming a connection.
There was no set of drama in the relationship, so it was good to see how the love developed .
September 29, 2020
I thoroughly enjoyed this story. It was refreshing in that the MCs really tried to communicate and they were solid in being true to themselves as they searched for their way in life. They author had opportunities to over-dramatise the plot, but held true to the more likely path, which I really appreciated.
Narration by Nick J Russo - loved!
Narration by Nick J Russo - loved!
October 10, 2018
3.5 stars
dnf-not-my-cuppa-maybe-yours
November 3, 2018Dnf @ 47%.
'Annoying roomate' was annoying...
'Annoying roomate' was annoying...
July 19, 2019
3.5 Stars
September 22, 2018
I love it.
Beautiful story, amazing characters, not much angst, MC who talked to each other, some genuine and not perfect secondary characters..
Beautiful story, amazing characters, not much angst, MC who talked to each other, some genuine and not perfect secondary characters..
June 28, 2019
This was a good book, and I really enjoyed that there weren't any major dramas or conflicts. It was a relaxing book to read, and I can't wait to read the next one in the series.
January 30, 2019
It was awesome to get caught up with Kev and Adam. We first met them in Tremble, and they moved to NYC to start a new life. Kev is back to being an escort, but starts to question what he wants out of life after he meets Charlie. Charlie had a tough time getting back into relationship territory after his boyfriend died 5 years prior. He starts out wanting just to find a friend or someone to talk to, but he is intrigued and very interested in Kev the moment he sees him.
I liked this. The relationship between Kev and Charlie was great. I enjoyed watching them break out of their comfort zone and find happiness together. I also liked the side characters and relationships, especially Kev with his roommate Adam.
Yet another fabulous book from E. Davies. I continue to adore everything he writes.
Edited to add review of the audiobook
I've found that I'm becoming picky when listening to audiobooks. Some narrators are clearly better than others. Nick Russo was fabulous and was a great choice for this book. He had a great rhythm and voice, and I felt like he did a great interpretation of Kev and Charlie. I would definitely listen to the rest of this series, and I will listen to Nick Russo again in general.
I am voluntarily reviewing an ARC provided by the author
I liked this. The relationship between Kev and Charlie was great. I enjoyed watching them break out of their comfort zone and find happiness together. I also liked the side characters and relationships, especially Kev with his roommate Adam.
Yet another fabulous book from E. Davies. I continue to adore everything he writes.
Edited to add review of the audiobook
I've found that I'm becoming picky when listening to audiobooks. Some narrators are clearly better than others. Nick Russo was fabulous and was a great choice for this book. He had a great rhythm and voice, and I felt like he did a great interpretation of Kev and Charlie. I would definitely listen to the rest of this series, and I will listen to Nick Russo again in general.
I am voluntarily reviewing an ARC provided by the author
January 2, 2019
A brand new series, Ed Davies writes an amazing new couple!
I love the setting of this new series, NYC is always a great background.
Kev and Charlie... it took me slightly longer than usual to get in the feel of their story, maybe because I was not familiar with the whole setting yet? Probably, because once I got in the mood of the book it flowed really well and I loved that, even though they try at the beginning, they cannot help being drawn together.
I also loved their integrity, that they refuse to go against their principles to please others.
I am intrigued by the side characters, I can't wait to read Ben's, Darren's and Adam's stories.
I love the setting of this new series, NYC is always a great background.
Kev and Charlie... it took me slightly longer than usual to get in the feel of their story, maybe because I was not familiar with the whole setting yet? Probably, because once I got in the mood of the book it flowed really well and I loved that, even though they try at the beginning, they cannot help being drawn together.
I also loved their integrity, that they refuse to go against their principles to please others.
I am intrigued by the side characters, I can't wait to read Ben's, Darren's and Adam's stories.
September 3, 2020
Electric Sunshine by E. Davies is the first book in the Brooklyn Boys series. The story is well written and interesting, with characters you want to get to know and like. The story makes you feel warm and happy, pulling at emotions while keeping you engrossed in the journey these two take to fininging their happy ending together.
Nick J Russo does a fantastic job as Narrator. Smooth and vlear and entertaining.
Nick J Russo does a fantastic job as Narrator. Smooth and vlear and entertaining.
July 28, 2020
This was a book that grew on me as it went along. I didn't dislike it at first - it was okay. But as it went along, the characters became more interesting, showed a bit more depth. I became invested in them individually & together. There was also a kind of light humor about it that I really enjoyed, and that helped balance out any of the more serious content, (along with some pretty hot parts).
I would've liked to have known more about each character's pasts - there was a fair amount shown for Kev, but there was a vagueness about Charlie's upbringing & life prior to when he was with Hugh - I kind of wished for conversations between the two characters about that part of Charlie's life. There was a decent amount of dialogue though - I'm big on dialogue, conversations with characters getting to know one another. Their relationship happens very fast, but they do talk, have serious conversations along with banter, they actually do a little dating, and they each had lives outside with friends & work. It's not ALL lust & fluffy schmaltz, so their falling in love relatively quickly seems pretty realistic. (Speaking of friends, I did like the progression of a couple of the friendships as well, as both characters were trying to reach out in other parts of their lives).
The only issue that nagged at me here & there was that Kev had only have been in New York for 3 months when the story began, and yet with various things he said about escorting & hustling there, his descriptions of his interactions with clients - the psychology of it, how he kept up his wardrobe & image, how he read newspapers & such to seem more sophisticated on dates, and the difficulties of keeping various profiles up without them being shut down, it was as if he'd been in New York & cultivating this for far longer than 3 months. There were allusions to possible sex work in his life in years past, but it didn't seem to be the same as the escorting he did in NYC. But that's really a small thing in my overall feelings on the book.
Onto the narration for the audio - it was good. Russo does a great job of emoting & pacing. His southern accent for Kev was a little inconsistent, but not terrible. Kev does mention that his accent was not as strong as it had once been. But besides that tiny thing, I enjoyed the audio very much.
As an aside, I didn't realize at first that this was a spin-off of Davies' Significant Brothers series. Immediately after finishing Electric Sunshine this morning, I started the first book of Significant Brothers. I'm further convinced of my liking for E. Davies' writing already.
I would've liked to have known more about each character's pasts - there was a fair amount shown for Kev, but there was a vagueness about Charlie's upbringing & life prior to when he was with Hugh - I kind of wished for conversations between the two characters about that part of Charlie's life. There was a decent amount of dialogue though - I'm big on dialogue, conversations with characters getting to know one another. Their relationship happens very fast, but they do talk, have serious conversations along with banter, they actually do a little dating, and they each had lives outside with friends & work. It's not ALL lust & fluffy schmaltz, so their falling in love relatively quickly seems pretty realistic. (Speaking of friends, I did like the progression of a couple of the friendships as well, as both characters were trying to reach out in other parts of their lives).
The only issue that nagged at me here & there was that Kev had only have been in New York for 3 months when the story began, and yet with various things he said about escorting & hustling there, his descriptions of his interactions with clients - the psychology of it, how he kept up his wardrobe & image, how he read newspapers & such to seem more sophisticated on dates, and the difficulties of keeping various profiles up without them being shut down, it was as if he'd been in New York & cultivating this for far longer than 3 months. There were allusions to possible sex work in his life in years past, but it didn't seem to be the same as the escorting he did in NYC. But that's really a small thing in my overall feelings on the book.
Onto the narration for the audio - it was good. Russo does a great job of emoting & pacing. His southern accent for Kev was a little inconsistent, but not terrible. Kev does mention that his accent was not as strong as it had once been. But besides that tiny thing, I enjoyed the audio very much.
As an aside, I didn't realize at first that this was a spin-off of Davies' Significant Brothers series. Immediately after finishing Electric Sunshine this morning, I started the first book of Significant Brothers. I'm further convinced of my liking for E. Davies' writing already.
March 22, 2025
I gave this lovely book 4.75 rounded up! It's a sweet, low-angst read that turned out to be unexpectedly touching.
I bought this as part of a boxed set on Audible with some trepidation, because an earlier series by E. Davies had been a big disappointment (the narrator had done the author no favors, to be fair). But I really like Davies' later "Significant Brothers" series, and this one was a spin-off (in other words, an even later work) ,so I took a chance, figuring maybe Davies had continued to mature as a writer. The risk paid off!
I loved this book. It drew me in immediately with an interesting plot and well fleshed out and engaging characters. Kev was by necessity working jobs that most would find demeaning, but he wouldn't be defined by his line of work. He was sweet, idealistic, insightful and a bit insecure. Charlie, by contrast, was kind of lost and alone, because after the death of his boyfriend five years earlier, he had buried himself in his demanding and exacting work as an architect. He was defined by his work.
Their first meeting was sweet, but not in a saccharine way. Charlie was looking for someone to ease him back into the world of dating after five years of being alone. He felt shy and inept. Kev was used to helping people feel at ease. Perfect fit. Though neither of them felt that they were ready to be in a relationship, of course they ended up being drawn together.
One of the things Davies did so well in this book was to make a relationship between people from such different worlds work. Though their life experiences had been very different, the ideals they shared gave them much in common. And each of them grew as individuals as they learned to be a couple. I could go on and on, but suffice it to say that they complemented one another.
Another aspect of Davies' writing that really improved was his love scenes. In earlier books, they were extremely heavy on the details without being especially emotional, even though they were intended to be moving in some instances. Lots of telling without showing, I guess. In this book, we still got a lot of detail, but there was also an emotional connection, and each encounter had meaning for the plot and for the MC's growing relationship.
The pacing was good, the plot was very interesting, and there were some good secondary characters.
Audiobook: Best work by Nick J. Russo I've heard. Outstanding!
I bought this as part of a boxed set on Audible with some trepidation, because an earlier series by E. Davies had been a big disappointment (the narrator had done the author no favors, to be fair). But I really like Davies' later "Significant Brothers" series, and this one was a spin-off (in other words, an even later work) ,so I took a chance, figuring maybe Davies had continued to mature as a writer. The risk paid off!
I loved this book. It drew me in immediately with an interesting plot and well fleshed out and engaging characters. Kev was by necessity working jobs that most would find demeaning, but he wouldn't be defined by his line of work. He was sweet, idealistic, insightful and a bit insecure. Charlie, by contrast, was kind of lost and alone, because after the death of his boyfriend five years earlier, he had buried himself in his demanding and exacting work as an architect. He was defined by his work.
Their first meeting was sweet, but not in a saccharine way. Charlie was looking for someone to ease him back into the world of dating after five years of being alone. He felt shy and inept. Kev was used to helping people feel at ease. Perfect fit. Though neither of them felt that they were ready to be in a relationship, of course they ended up being drawn together.
One of the things Davies did so well in this book was to make a relationship between people from such different worlds work. Though their life experiences had been very different, the ideals they shared gave them much in common. And each of them grew as individuals as they learned to be a couple. I could go on and on, but suffice it to say that they complemented one another.
Another aspect of Davies' writing that really improved was his love scenes. In earlier books, they were extremely heavy on the details without being especially emotional, even though they were intended to be moving in some instances. Lots of telling without showing, I guess. In this book, we still got a lot of detail, but there was also an emotional connection, and each encounter had meaning for the plot and for the MC's growing relationship.
The pacing was good, the plot was very interesting, and there were some good secondary characters.
Audiobook: Best work by Nick J. Russo I've heard. Outstanding!
October 13, 2018
✩ ✩ ✩ ✩ 4-STAR ✩ REVIEW ✩ ✩ ✩ ✩
> > Judging a Book by its Cover < <
Bold, vibrant, eye-catching cover. Synopsis was interesting.
> > Looking Deeper < <
POV ~> Alternating first-person.
An architect and younger sex worker meet at a NYC gay club and are instantly drawn to one another.
Charlie’s boyfriend has been dead for five years now and he’s still just going through the motions, dedicating every available minute to his career and success within the firm. Kev’s newer to New York, having run away young when he was exiled after coming out. With no diploma and no real work history, he uses his looks, charm, and natural ability to read and listen to people for escort and sex-based business.
Kev may have been given the brush off by Charlie’s new acquaintance, but Charlie feels drawn to the younger man like he hasn’t experienced since his early days with Hugh. He quickly finds a way to contact Kev and sets up a “date”. One date and both men are hooked. The chemistry and companionship are too much to deny.
Although obstacles get in the way, business taking Charlie out of the country to places not-quite safe and Kev’s attempts to travel a safer path himself, they struggle internally more than with one another.
Secondary cast was widely diverse and interesting. I especially liked the diner owner and partner.
Dialogue and interaction were strong and smart. The plot was well-written and paced, the writing style was smooth.
Predictability was low. The conclusion was solid and satisfying enough to believe they’ll have a HEA, maybe continuing in the background of book 2.
Overall, I enjoyed the book and cast of characters, and I would recommend it to fans of contemporary m/m romance. There’s a small age gap between the characters but nothing crazy and while it is mentioned now and again, it does not play a huge role in the plot.
.
Rating: [R] ~ Score: 4.225 ~ Stars: 4
==========================
⭐ ⭐ **** Disclosure of Material: I borrowed a copy of this book via my #KindleUnlimited subscription and am voluntarily leaving unbiased and unsolicited feedback. I was not asked, encouraged, or required to leave a review - nor was I compensated in any way. I am posting this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising". ***** ⭐ ⭐
> > Judging a Book by its Cover < <
Bold, vibrant, eye-catching cover. Synopsis was interesting.
> > Looking Deeper < <
POV ~> Alternating first-person.
An architect and younger sex worker meet at a NYC gay club and are instantly drawn to one another.
Charlie’s boyfriend has been dead for five years now and he’s still just going through the motions, dedicating every available minute to his career and success within the firm. Kev’s newer to New York, having run away young when he was exiled after coming out. With no diploma and no real work history, he uses his looks, charm, and natural ability to read and listen to people for escort and sex-based business.
Kev may have been given the brush off by Charlie’s new acquaintance, but Charlie feels drawn to the younger man like he hasn’t experienced since his early days with Hugh. He quickly finds a way to contact Kev and sets up a “date”. One date and both men are hooked. The chemistry and companionship are too much to deny.
Although obstacles get in the way, business taking Charlie out of the country to places not-quite safe and Kev’s attempts to travel a safer path himself, they struggle internally more than with one another.
Secondary cast was widely diverse and interesting. I especially liked the diner owner and partner.
Dialogue and interaction were strong and smart. The plot was well-written and paced, the writing style was smooth.
Predictability was low. The conclusion was solid and satisfying enough to believe they’ll have a HEA, maybe continuing in the background of book 2.
Overall, I enjoyed the book and cast of characters, and I would recommend it to fans of contemporary m/m romance. There’s a small age gap between the characters but nothing crazy and while it is mentioned now and again, it does not play a huge role in the plot.
.
Rating: [R] ~ Score: 4.225 ~ Stars: 4
==========================
⭐ ⭐ **** Disclosure of Material: I borrowed a copy of this book via my #KindleUnlimited subscription and am voluntarily leaving unbiased and unsolicited feedback. I was not asked, encouraged, or required to leave a review - nor was I compensated in any way. I am posting this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising". ***** ⭐ ⭐
September 26, 2020
Charlie and Kev (an audio review)
I know nothing about Brooklyn, so this series was fun. I loved the diner Bubbles and the gay nightclub Friction. I liked how there was a wide variety of characters who spanned all ages and relationship statuses. There were some established couples in the background, and some single men front and center.
Enter Charlie. His boyfriend died suddenly five years ago and he’s been mired in grief ever since. He’s close to his boyfriend’s parents and has a few friends, including ones who drag him out sometimes. And he needs to step away from his high-pressure architecture job to just chill. And one night, while chilling, he meets Kev.
Now Kev has a more tragic backstory. His family booted him out at sixteen for being gay. He landed at a ranch where he learned some skills but then he left with his friend Adam and they made their way to Brooklyn. They are living in a shoddy two-bedroom apartment (well, one along with a hastily constructed wall so the landlord can call it a two-bedroom and get more rent). Adam works a number of odd jobs to make his rent while Kev does…less safe things. He takes a risk every time he sets up a new Grindr profile and not just because the site would shut him down if they knew he was selling himself.
He and Charlie hit it off and Kev realizes it’s time to walk away from that old life. His one foray into retail is a disaster and he despairs of ever finding a career. Or even a job. He’ll take just about anything at this point. Of course Charlie, witnessing this, wants to step in and help. Hell, he’d take over given half a chance. But he also understands Kev needs to do this himself. To prove to himself that he can stand on his own two feet.
I loved how these two characters came together. Two wounded souls. Two men deserving of a second chance. I also liked how Charlie had to own up to how his career was a detriment to him and Kev had to find something that would really fill his soul.
This book was low-angst and I enjoyed that. Sometimes it’s nice to just sit and read a book with great characters and a happily ever after. Of course I have to mention Nick J. Russo’s narration. He was perfect for this book and brought the characters to life. Needless to say, I’m happy to recommend the book.
I know nothing about Brooklyn, so this series was fun. I loved the diner Bubbles and the gay nightclub Friction. I liked how there was a wide variety of characters who spanned all ages and relationship statuses. There were some established couples in the background, and some single men front and center.
Enter Charlie. His boyfriend died suddenly five years ago and he’s been mired in grief ever since. He’s close to his boyfriend’s parents and has a few friends, including ones who drag him out sometimes. And he needs to step away from his high-pressure architecture job to just chill. And one night, while chilling, he meets Kev.
Now Kev has a more tragic backstory. His family booted him out at sixteen for being gay. He landed at a ranch where he learned some skills but then he left with his friend Adam and they made their way to Brooklyn. They are living in a shoddy two-bedroom apartment (well, one along with a hastily constructed wall so the landlord can call it a two-bedroom and get more rent). Adam works a number of odd jobs to make his rent while Kev does…less safe things. He takes a risk every time he sets up a new Grindr profile and not just because the site would shut him down if they knew he was selling himself.
He and Charlie hit it off and Kev realizes it’s time to walk away from that old life. His one foray into retail is a disaster and he despairs of ever finding a career. Or even a job. He’ll take just about anything at this point. Of course Charlie, witnessing this, wants to step in and help. Hell, he’d take over given half a chance. But he also understands Kev needs to do this himself. To prove to himself that he can stand on his own two feet.
I loved how these two characters came together. Two wounded souls. Two men deserving of a second chance. I also liked how Charlie had to own up to how his career was a detriment to him and Kev had to find something that would really fill his soul.
This book was low-angst and I enjoyed that. Sometimes it’s nice to just sit and read a book with great characters and a happily ever after. Of course I have to mention Nick J. Russo’s narration. He was perfect for this book and brought the characters to life. Needless to say, I’m happy to recommend the book.
September 18, 2018
I wasn't sure how I felt when I found out that Kev returned to his rent boy ways when he and Adam got to New York. I was hoping that Josh had helped him, and I guess in a way he did. Anyway.Back to this book. Lol.
I freaking adored Kev and Charlie. Charlie steps in the gay bar in hopes of pulling him out of his rut and strikes up a conversation with Darren who eventually becomes a good friend. They're just talking getting to know each other and up walks this gorgeous twink. He feels instantly drawn to him, but he doesn't understand why just yet. Darren runs him off saying he doesn't wanna pay for it. Doesn't need to, but the twink's eyes stay on Charlie as he talks to Darren. When the guy walks off he pulls out his phone and Charlie recognizes the grinder app. He doesn't say anything but asks Darren why he kept saying what he was saying. Darren explains that Kev(the twink) was a hooker. Charlie starts to formulate a plan when he and Darren eventually move on from each other. He leaves the bar and goes to Bubble's diner. He creates a grinder account and looks for the guy from the bar. He sends him a message and of course with no pictures, he has to confirm who he is and sends a selfie. Kev recognizes the diner and heads over and surprises Charlie. Catching him off guard. They get to talking and Charlie asks for a date. Hoping it'll get him back into the dating scene. He'd been in a funk since his boyfriend was killed in a car accident and he hopes Kev can help pull him out. Kev takes the job, but he really likes Charlie.
Kev decides after his grinder account was deleted for the hundredth time that he decides he needs to lay low for a while. But when Charlie messages for a second date. He decides he wants to see him again, but this time for free. The book developed from there and it is such a sweet and loving story, that it leaves you wanting more from beginning to end. 5 STARS!
I freaking adored Kev and Charlie. Charlie steps in the gay bar in hopes of pulling him out of his rut and strikes up a conversation with Darren who eventually becomes a good friend. They're just talking getting to know each other and up walks this gorgeous twink. He feels instantly drawn to him, but he doesn't understand why just yet. Darren runs him off saying he doesn't wanna pay for it. Doesn't need to, but the twink's eyes stay on Charlie as he talks to Darren. When the guy walks off he pulls out his phone and Charlie recognizes the grinder app. He doesn't say anything but asks Darren why he kept saying what he was saying. Darren explains that Kev(the twink) was a hooker. Charlie starts to formulate a plan when he and Darren eventually move on from each other. He leaves the bar and goes to Bubble's diner. He creates a grinder account and looks for the guy from the bar. He sends him a message and of course with no pictures, he has to confirm who he is and sends a selfie. Kev recognizes the diner and heads over and surprises Charlie. Catching him off guard. They get to talking and Charlie asks for a date. Hoping it'll get him back into the dating scene. He'd been in a funk since his boyfriend was killed in a car accident and he hopes Kev can help pull him out. Kev takes the job, but he really likes Charlie.
Kev decides after his grinder account was deleted for the hundredth time that he decides he needs to lay low for a while. But when Charlie messages for a second date. He decides he wants to see him again, but this time for free. The book developed from there and it is such a sweet and loving story, that it leaves you wanting more from beginning to end. 5 STARS!
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